Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is a revered ancient temple located in Kaviyoor village near Thiruvalla in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the oldest and most architecturally significant shrines in Kerala, drawing devotees, heritage lovers, and tourists alike. Rich in spiritual aura, history, and cultural traditions, the temple is a vital pilgrimage center in South India.
Temple About
Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Kerala, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It holds significant religious, architectural, and historical importance.
Temple Description
This temple, believed to date back to the 10th century, stands as a beautiful example of Kerala-style architecture. It is perched on a small hill near the Manimala River and is famous for its ornate wooden carvings and peaceful surroundings. The sanctum houses the idol of Lord Shiva in the form of Shivalinga, alongside shrines for Parvati, Ganapathy, Subramanya, and Hanuman.
Temple Specialty
Exquisite wooden architecture and mural art
Hanuman is worshipped in a separate sanctum
Legend connects the temple with Lord Rama and Treta Yuga
Important Trimurti shrine incorporating elements of Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma
Temple Address
Kaviyoor Mahadeva TempleKaviyoor, Thiruvalla,Pathanamthitta District,Kerala – 689582, India.
Latitude & Longitude
9.3993° N, 76.5785° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 4:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Evening: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
(Timings may vary on festival days)
Temple Sevas
Usha Pooja
Ucha Pooja
Deeparadhana
Pushpanjali
Archana
Special offerings: Mrityunjaya Homam, Ganapathi Homam, Palpayasam
Traveling FacilitiesRegular buses and taxis from Thiruvalla and Pathanamthitta
Auto-rickshaws and private cabs available
Food Facilities
Local eateries and vegetarian hotels
Temple offers prasadam like Appam and Payasam during special poojas
Stay Facilities
Budget hotels, lodges, and Devaswom guest houses in and around Kaviyoor and Thiruvalla
Nearby Railway Station
Thiruvalla Railway Station – approx. 6 km
Nearby Airports
Cochin International Airport (COK) – approx. 115 km
Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) – approx. 130 km
Nearby Bus Station
Thiruvalla KSRTC Bus Stand – 5 km
Kaviyoor Local Stop – close to the temple
Bus Routes
Direct and connecting buses from Kochi, Kottayam, and Trivandrum to Thiruvalla
Local buses or autos to Kaviyoor from Thiruvalla
Train Routes
Alight at Thiruvalla Station on the Ernakulam–Kayamkulam route
Take bus or taxi to reach Kaviyoor (6 km)
Airways Access
Fly to Cochin or Trivandrum Airport
From there, travel to Thiruvalla by train or cab, then local transit to Kaviyoor
Nearby Cities
Thiruvalla (6 km)
Pathanamthitta (30 km)
Chengannur (16 km)
Kottayam (30 km)
Nearby Visiting Places
Sree Vallabha Temple, Thiruvalla
Parumala Church
Chengannur Mahadeva Temple
Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple
Pandalam Palace
Perunthenaruvi Waterfalls
Best Visiting Season
November to March – Ideal weather and festival time (Thiruvathira, Shivaratri)
Shopping – What to Buy
Kerala handicrafts
Wooden and brass idols
Local snacks like banana chips
Spices and pooja items
Kaviyoor Mahadeva Temple is not only a sacred destination for devotees of Lord Shiva but also a place of cultural and architectural marvel. Its deep mythological roots, spiritual energy, and serene surroundings make it a must-visit for pilgrims and tourists alike. With good connectivity, basic amenities, and nearby attractions, it offers a complete spiritual retreat in the heart of Kerala.
